Sinnoh has never looked so good!
Prior to the Pokémon Presents on August 18th, 2021, we were told that the Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl games would be faithful remakes. This lead to lots of fear among The Pokémon community. However, what was shown today has put all these fears to rest. Let’s dive into what was shown.
The Grand Underground
The Underground from the original Diamond and Pearl games has been powered up. It is a vast maze-like area that spreads underneath the entire Sinnoh region. Using the Explorer Kit, you can venture down into the Grand Underground where you can dig for valuable gems and even Pokémon Fossils. You will also be able to create and decorate your own secret base.
There are a variety of Pokémon living down here as well in Hideaways. These can come in a variety of terrains, from water caverns to volcanic landscapes. The Pokémon you will discover down here will vary depending on the Hideaway, and some Pokémon can only be found in the Grand Underground.
Returning Features
Have you ever wanted to do something other that battle with your favorite Pokémon? Then step right up and take centre stage with three other trainers and their Pokémon, in the Super Contest. These costumed, dance performances are very popular in Sinnoh.
Take part in one of five categories – Coolness, Cuteness, Beauty, Toughness, and Cleverness. Each of these have four ranks to participate in – Normal, Great, Ultra and Master Rank. You will be evaluated in three aspects of your performance.
- Visual: How well put together is your costume? Does it fit the theme?
- Dance: Put your skills to the test in this rhythm based mini game.
- Moves: Use the right move at the right time to hype the crowd and score huge points.
Capsule customizations allow you to decorate your Pokéball with a variety of stickers that can add a special flourish when you send your Pokémon into battle. Add stickers in either 3d or 2d mode, which ever suits your style.
The Union Room is where you can hang out and socialize with friends. In the original titles, this is where you could participate in trades and battles with trainers around the world. It is unknown if Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl will have these same features, but I’d wager it’s a safe bet.
Manaphy Distribution
Receive this special gift before February 21, 2022. You will require an internet connection to get it, but a paid subscription will not be needed. The mystery gift function will be unlocked roughly two hours into the gameplay of Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl.
After reaching Solaceon City you can put Manaphy and a Ditto into the Nursery to receive an egg that will hatch into Phione. This is the way to add these two Pokémon to your Pokédex
New Features
In a huge turn of events, character customization has been revealed. Lots of outfits to choose from to make you look however you want. Also shown is the ability to choose your characters skin color. I know lots of people were hoping for this feature. There is more fun to be had when you can make your character look as much as you as possible.
Following Pokémon also makes it’s debut in Brilliant Diamond and Shining Pearl. Your favorite Pokémon can now be freed from the confines of their Pokéball and join you on your journey through the Sinnoh regions.
